China has been accused of building an airstrip on a disputed South China Sea island that is also claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan, according to satellite photos analysed by The Associated Press, as territorial tensions continue to escalate in the region.
The work on Triton island in the Paracel group is similar to projects spotted underway on seven man-made islands in the Spratly group to the east, which have been equipped with airstrips, docks and military systems, the report went on. Experts say the Triton runway appears long enough to accommodate turboprop aircraft and drones, but not fighter jets or bombers.
Read the full story: Associated Press
- By Sean O’Meara
Also on AF:
China Firm Nabs Solomon Islands Port Deal as US Watches On
Photos Emerge of China’s Military Bases on Artificial Islands
Pacific Islands Fail to Agree on Regional Deal With China
China and Australia Make Rival Bids to Woo Pacific Island Nations